text:
Richard Garriott on VR: "We're Still A Generation Early. I'm With Warren."
in Hardware Guides
"VR is a fad" was the pull-quote which propagated through the internet when Warren Spector made the comment last year, reinforcing it at ECGC a few days ago. The veteran designer indicated a belief that virtual reality could generate "interest among hardcore gamers," but remained cautious to grant too much early praise given personal experience with earlier VR attempts. Spector's decades-long industry experience grants weight to the statement, and made us curious what some long-time colleagues of Spector's might believe. Richard Garriott is one of those – friend and former employer of Spector – and has previously spoken to us about a history of effectively inventing MMOs, new graphics techniques, and more.
Richard Garriott joined us at PAX East 2016 for an impromptu discussion on the viability of virtual reality. The conversation started as small talk – "what do you think of VR?" – but evolved into an in-depth look at the challenges faced by the emergent technology. We rolled with it; you can find the video and some of the transcript below:
Hands-on Impressions of Mars 2030, an Open World VR (& Non-VR) Game
in Gaming Features
We've not been shy in our fierce criticisms of VR from a gaming perspective, but the maturation of development has yielded increasingly more mechanically-focused titles targeted at gamers. Mars 2030 aims to be more than a "VR Experience," as most titles are, and we had the opportunity to get hands-on with the new game at GTC 2016.
Mars 2030 is developed by Fusion and was first shown at the GTC keynote, the Mars rover helmed by industry icon Steve Wozniak. The open-world game takes place on the surface of Mars and deploys unique techniques to match surface color, heights, and physical interaction with terrain. It's playable on non-VR displays as well (and it does look good on 21:9 aspect ratios, based on the keynote), but hopes to stake its flag into the VR market with an agnostic disposition toward the Vive and Rift. Mars 2030 will work on both major devices.
Our hands-on impressions with Mars 2030 left us reasonably impressed with the early demonstration of Fusion's attempt to cast players as astronauts.
'Mars 2030' VR Demo Unveiled with Steve Wozniak at GTC 2016
NVidia's Graphics Technology Conference (GTC 2016) kicked-off with a keynote from CEO Jen-Hsun Huang, who frontloaded the event with topics on AI, software development kits, self-driving cars, machine-learning, and VR. Of what we've seen so far, the most interesting has been the new "Mars 2030" VR demo, which used photogrammetry to rebuild Mars using satellite flybys. The Mars 2030 VR demo was helmed by computer industry icon Steve Wozniak, whom Huang selected for the Woz's recently vocalized wishes to fly one-way to Mars. Wozniak, providing the most candid form of stage presence, declared "wow! I'm getting dizzy! I'm gonna fall out of this chair."
Huang: "... Well, Woz, that was not a helpful comment."
But the exchange sums-up the presentation well – somewhat playful, experimental with technology, and entertaining.
Our initial GTC keynote coverage consists primarily of VR and SDK talking points, with a focus on the Mars 2030 demo.
Valve Sells 15,000 HTC Vive Headsets in First 10 Minutes of Pre-Order Frenzy
Steam today launched the pre-order for their collaboration project with HTC -- the HTC Vive for SteamVR. Those who pre-order get the whole kit-and-caboodle -- the headset, sensors, and controllers -- and a few extra throw-in games. We've covered Valve's VR multiple times, going so far as to explain the "how it works" in-depth here, and we've talked about our opinion of the whole thing.
AMD Posts Internal SteamVR Performance Test Results
For years now, VR has seemed to be right around the corner, but consumer VR is (finally) becoming a reality with the HTC Vive and Oculus Rift soon hitting retailers. Unfortunately, the system requirements for VR – to the woe of my wallet – are fairly demanding.
The Oculus Rift officially recommends an nVidia 970 or AMD 290, an i5-4590, and 8GB+ of RAM. In comparison, the Vive has the same recommended specs with the exception of memory, where the Vive recommends only 4GB.
Week's Hardware News: Intel Pulls i3 Overclocking, VR Dev in VR, & More
The last week's worth of computer hardware news contained a few disappointments – the removal of non-K overclocking from some boards, for one – and a few upshots. One of those upshots is on the front of VR, headed-up by Epic Games in a publicly released video reel of unique implementations. Virtual reality's use cases also expanded this week, as developers Epic Games have learned new means to utilize the technology (something we think needs to happen).
Our weekly hardware news recap is below, though the script has been appended for the readers out there. Topics for this week's round-up include Intel's crack-down on non-K overclocking, editing games within VR, AMD's Wraith, a Sony SSD, and some new peripherals.
Why We Won't Be Day-One VR Adopters
Ivan Sutherland's "Sword of Domacles" head-mounted display lurched above its user as a spider above its prey; the contraption, as most technology of its era, was room-sized. The Sword of Domacles wasn't meant to be a user-accessible VR solution. It produced primitive wireframes of a room's interior and was strictly observational, demonstrated in awkward photos with the wearer's hands neatly clasped behind his back. This was Ground Zero for VR.
Sutherland later joined David Evans to build the University of Utah's Computer Science and Computer Graphics divisions, responsible for students who'd later create the world's first computer-animated 3D graphics. Through Sutherland and Evans – and their students – the foundation for Adobe, Pixar, and Silicon Graphics (SGI) was set, later producing companies like the modern nVidia. All this history of VR is recapped more thoroughly in our "History of Virtual Reality" article.
Oculus VR and Valve are makers of the modern-day HMD incarnates. Billions of dollars are backing these new ventures and, for the first time in history, viable VR solutions don't cost tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars. They're also not military-owned, another common theme of previous virtual reality attempts.
Our team has spent a considerable amount of time in virtual reality demos. The technology is an impressive fusion of display advancements, frametime pacing optimization, input latency management, and IR scanning. Just the display tech alone is nearly unrivaled, the Rift packing 2160x1200 pixels into a space smaller than a phone screen. Screen Door Effect issues have been largely resolved or circumvented on each of the major two VR solutions, and timewarp has been navigated with clever GPU processing techniques by both AMD and nVidia. Everything's lining-up to be a serious push into virtual reality and, this time, there's enough money behind the concept that it's not another "3D glasses" fad. Probably, anyway.
But I don't think VR is ready for day-one adoption by the general gaming audience. Impressive – yes; here to stay – yes. But not ready for gamers. The Vive and Rift both experience similar versions of the same problems: Hardware requirements and prices that rival more affordable displays, logistical and use case limitations, and the industry's myopic understanding of game design.
HTC's Vive and Oculus VR's Rift are the two big players that we're focusing on today.
Oculus CEO to Australians: Go Ahead and File a Complaint
Oculus Rift CEO Palmer Luckey took fire all throughout last week's CES, a show we covered extensively, thanks to his company's near-doubled Oculus Rift pricing over the initial $350 estimate. The company claims it's selling the Rift at "almost cost" with its $600 price-point, and has definitely tempered its financial hit with the inclusion of a free Xbox controller.
For Australians, the pricing is significantly worse. Residents of Australia are currently paying $130 just to ship the $600 Rift, which sees what appears to be a US tax add that raises price to $685; after this, Australians are paying an additional GST (Goods & Services Tax) of ~10%. The price exceeds 1000AUD thanks to the massive shipping charge, which is triggering additional consumer taxes for the import.
Intel's 'Jetpack:' A Mobile, Almost Wireless HTC Vive Backpack
Intel has plenty of floor presence at CES – building-sized booths, et al. – but the most interesting thing they brought to CES may have been in a separate demo suite. The suite was loaded with the latest laptops from each of the industry's most prolific manufacturers, one of which – a GT72 from MSI (we've reviewed them a few times) – hung mounted to a mobile VR rig. We'll get to that in a moment.
We were first introduced to the new Razer Blade Stealth, an impressively light and thin laptop with a 1440p display and a USB type C port. The type C port can be used as a charging port for the laptop or as a Thunderbolt 3 connection. Intel used the USB C port as a Thunderbolt link to connect to the Razer Core, an external graphics card enclosure (we've looked at these before, too). The device inside the Razer Core was an AMD graphics card and the connection was announced by the software each time we removed or replaced the cable. Just for kicks, we also flipped the USB C connector because that's still fun to do that.
Hands-On with New HTC Vive vs. Oculus Rift at CES 2016
The latest HTC Vive demo plants players within the photorealistic outcroppings of Mount Everest, an atmosphere which serves more as an "experience" than an outright "game." Mechanics are effectively boiled-down to look at stuff and move the sticks, with the full bore of virtual reality graphics processing stealing the spotlight. Developers Solfar Studios stitched together tens of thousands of frames from the real mountain, accurately height-mapped the mountain, and firmly represent Everest's actual crevices, ravines, and spine-like ridgelines to the Vive wearer.
This is the final iteration of the HTC Vive. We previously published a deep-dive on the headset's technological inner-workings, but substantial changes have been made in just the few months following. Core concepts and objectives remain largely unchanged, yet execution and design have received additional development focus thanks to delays from initial Xmas '15 launch targets. The Vive isn't the first HMD to push back launch into 2016, either; Oculus VR's Rift will post its public pre-order page on Wednesday, 1/6, finally nearing its own launch target of 2Q16.
The VR juggernauts are going head-to-head, then, with launch dates fully aligning and graphics vendors supporting all viable technologies. Our initial user impressions are above, GN's Patrick Stone joining for a different perspective. Carry on for the split-author impressions editorial.
Patrick Stone covers all Oculus Rift sections (demarcated with parenthetical notation); Steve Burke covers the HTC Vive.


Audiconsulting provides a mediation service with qualified, Ministry of Justice-registered professionals with broad experience in conflict resolution.
It is an alternative means of solving conflicts in which two or more parties voluntarily try to come to an agreement with the help of a mediator.
The mediator acts with impartiality, neutrality and confidentiality, facilitating communication between the parties, ensuring they have sufficient information and advice and developing an active approach bringing the parties together.
How does it help the company?
Mediation is a highly effective tool for companies and professionals, enabling them to resolve conflicts within their own organisation or arising from their relations with other companies and professionals, through a fully confidential internal procedure, saving on time and money while maintaining labour and commercial relations. In short, it helps solve your conflicts quickly, flexibly, economically and confidentially.
Cost: it facilitates agreement between the parties, avoiding the costs of lawsuits and arbitration.
Flexibility: the process normally lasts only a few months, and sometimes is over in just a few weeks.
Communication: it helps restore communication and trust between the parties.
Lasting agreements: better compliance with the agreements reached than with imposed solutions.
Corporate image: preserves and enhances the corporate image due to the confidentiality of the process.
Executive resolution: the solution is executive in nature.


text:
Angel #3 (2019) variant
(W) Bryan Edward Hill
(A) Gleb Melnikov
The landmark reimagining of ANGEL continues here from Bryan Edward Hill (Detective Comics, Killmonger), Gleb Melnikov and series creator Joss Whedon (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Marvel's The Avengers).
BONUS REVIEW by Kevin Healy
In the tradition of 'Die Die Die!' and ..., comes the 2nd secret comic in the past 12 months, and its ANGEL!
If you don't know Angel, he's a vampire, with a soul, looking to do good after being so very bad. It can't be a shock that he's got a book, because BOOM! is successfully breathing life into properties that were actually just fine over at Dark Horse. Tying in to the events of the end of Buffy #4 (you'll have to do your own homework, we're here for Angel), we get a story from Angel's past after the Evil Eding of one of the Scooby Gang.
Story and art are both fine here, but not as nice as the Dan Mora lead in pages. Based on this issue, it looks like these series may run on parallel tracks, much the same way Star Wars and Darth Vader did.
If you're a Buffy person, you're already on board for this. If you're a BOOM! Buffy person, I'd bet you're in too. If you're just a walk-in, I'm not so sure, but it is enjoyable.
I give it 7 out of 10 Grahams
Angel After the Fall #10 (2007) sdcc signed exclusive
Magic The Gathering Chandra #1 cover a
Magic The Gathering Chandra #3
Doctor Strange #16 (2018)
Doctor Strange #16 (2018) spider-man stealth suit variant
Orville #1 new beginnings
Justice League Dark Annual #1 (2019)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Human Tetris in dance form.
Remember the many hours you spent playing Tetris? And all evenings dedicated to fitting little shapes together ? A true tribute to the video game, choreographer Erik Kaiel's 'Tetris' is intended for younger audiences but will not fail to stir nostalgia in Generation Y too. On stage, four blocks of rectangles and squares are replaced by four dancers, who, just as in the game, must bend to the will of gravity and angles. The choreography is ingenious and playful, with dancer-acrobats lining up, curling up, sliding and gliding through the game.


Nose: Definitely Balvenie. Sweet, doughy, yeasty. Mild citrus. Cinnamon, clove.
Taste: Sweet and cream forward. Lots of nice doughy sweetness, clove, cinnamon, vanilla, butter cream. The slight boost in proof is excellent and makes for a nice mouthfeel.
Finish: Medium, no heat or real roughness. Sweet and kind of one trick but delicious.
Overall: While not exceptionally exciting, it's well done and I enjoyed it quite a bit. Too bad it's discontinued. I'm giving this a Rank 6.


Our business is founded on the principle that individuals with brain injuries need a nurturing environment in order to foster personal growth. We specialize in supporting individuals with brain injuries.
Tara DeShano is CEO of Flourish Supportive Living. Tara is responsible for providing vision and strategy while focusing on program development and financial oversight. Tara has over 18 years of experience in roles ranging from business development, operational management and consulting.
Tara has always had a passion for helping others. After her mother was affected by a traumatic brain injury, she decided to focus on helping individuals with brain injury. Tara is dedicated to providing the highest-quality care and home-like atmosphere to individuals with brain injury.
Tara holds a B.S. degree from the University of Colorado Boulder and an M.B.A. from Regis University. She resides in Denver with her husband Chris and two children, Ethan and Claire.
Marisa Duran is Program Director and Administrator of Flourish Supportive Living. Marisa is responsible for community operations, administration and admissions with a focus on quality of care.
Marisa has over 17 years of experience in the assisted living industry in various roles ranging from caregiver to executive director. She has also had personal experience caring for a loved one with a brain injury. Marisa brings not only her personal experience but professional experience to provide the best care for your loved ones.
Marisa resides in Highlands Rance with her husband Josh and 5 kids that she adores and loves spending time with. She is also a die-hard bronco fan born and raised in Colorado.


Old man winter is finally releasing his icy grip on Canada as a rapid warming in temperatures is expected during the second half of March. Hopefully, this should turn out to be the end of the brutal winter weather that has covered most of Canada over the past month.
African swine fever is an emerging threat to the agriculture sector worldwide, though quantifying the danger remains up for debate.
Sound advice for anyone interested in getting into agriculture.
Cow numbers have stopped their decline and beef price spread with the U.S. is shrinking.
Oat research and development continues despite industry and government funding cuts.


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Integrity Week 2022
What is Academic Dishonesty?
Honor Pledge
The Honor Pledge is a statement undergraduate and graduate students should be asked to write by hand and sign on examinations, papers, or other academic assignments. The Pledge reads:.
I pledge on my honor that I have not given or received any unauthorized assistance on this assignment/examination.
The pledge was adopted by the University Senate on April 9, 2001, and approved by the President on May 10, 2001. Full implementation was effective throughout the University on the first day of the Spring 2002 semester.
Each year during New Student Orientation, new students sign an Honor Scroll for their graduating class. The signing of the scroll is each student's introduction to the culture of academic integrity fostered by the University of Maryland.
What should faculty members write about the Pledge in their syllabi?
The following language may be used as a model:
The University has a nationally recognized Honor Code, administered by the Student Honor Council. The Student Honor Council proposed and the University Senate approved an Honor Pledge. The University of Maryland Honor Pledge reads:
Unless you are specifically advised to the contrary, the Pledge statement should be handwritten and signed on the front cover of all papers, projects, or other academic assignments submitted for evaluation in this course. Students who fail to write and sign the Pledge will be asked to confer with the instructor.
Other Items to include:
A reference to and a web site address for any professional ethical codes pertinent to the course (e.g., the Fundamental Canons of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers)
A link to the Student Honor Council Website
What is the Maryland Honor Pledge designed to accomplish?
The Honor Pledge is a community building ritual, designed to encourage faculty and students to reflect upon the University's core institutional value of academic integrity. Professors who invite students to sign the Honor Pledge signify that there is an ethical component to teaching and learning. Students who write by hand and sign the Pledge affirm a sense of pride in the integrity of their work.
Do honor pledges suggest students cannot be trusted?
No. Student leaders at Maryland would not have developed the Pledge if it had that connotation. People who enter a profession or assume public office often sign an oath or affirmation. Likewise, Maryland students endorse the Honor Pledge because they feel a growing sense of pride in the quality of the University. For them, the Pledge reflects their public statement of support for academic excellence, including the highest standards for academic integrity.
Is there any evidence pledges or public affirmations make a difference in attitudes or behavior?
National research shows that schools with traditional honor codes including pledge requirements have significantly lower rates of academic dishonesty than schools without honor codes.
In reviewing the honor pledge concept, the University Senate Committee on Student Conduct also found that pledges generate strong support from graduates of honor code schools.
Princeton graduate Don McCabe (Professor of Management at Rutgers University and founder of the International Center for Academic Integrity at Clemson University) wrote to the Committee:
I am very partial to pledges. I would suggest that a significant majority of honor code school alumni. . . can still recite the honor pledge even though it's been 30- to-50 years or more since they last signed it. It was a very meaningful part of the [honor] code tradition.
This perspective has been consistently echoed by University of Maryland faculty members who are graduates of honor code schools.
How can an honor pledge deter someone who has already decided to engage in academic dishonesty?
Honor pledges are not likely to deter the most determined cheaters. Most students, however, do not fall into that category. They cheat because they developed the habit of cheating in high school or because they think "everyone does it" in college.
One of the values of an honor pledge is regular reiteration of a campus-wide commitment to academic integrity. Writing and signing an honor pledge and seeing other students do the same sends the powerful message that academic dishonesty is not considered acceptable behavior among students, and that promoting academic integrity is a responsibility students share with faculty members.
Why are students asked to write the Pledge by hand as well as to sign it?
The purpose of asking students to write the Pledge by hand is to promote a period of serious reflection at the beginning or end of an academic exercise. Additionally by having them write the pledge and not just sign there name next to it they are actually reading and comprehending the words of the Honor Pledge. Therefore, they have more contact and exposure with the Honor Pledge.
Are honor pledges burdensome to administer?
Administration of honor pledges is not unduly burdensome, as evidenced by long-standing faculty support for honor pledges at many institutions and Maryland in particular. The wording of the Pledge (with appropriate space to write and sign) is printed on all University examination booklets and electronic grading forms.
What if a student refuses to write or sign the Pledge?
The Maryland Honor Pledge was reviewed by legal counsel and is carefully crafted to respect the autonomy of individuals who might object to a pledge requirement on religious or ideological grounds. The University Senate resolution on the Honor Pledge states that "signing or non-signing of the Pledge will not be considered in grading or judicial procedures."
If a handwritten Honor Pledge and Pledge signature do not appear on a paper or examination, faculty members should ask the student for an explanation. Doing so has the added value of encouraging teachers and students to discuss the importance of academic integrity and the best ways to promote it. Students remain free to decline to write or sign the Pledge and should not be penalized for exercising that right. Students should be reminded, however, that they are subject to the requirements of the Code of Academic Integrity, whether or not they write and sign the Honor Pledge.
How can a pledge be effective if it isn't compulsory?
The highest forms of moral development require freedom to choose, influenced by example and persuasion, not compulsion. The Honor Pledge is meant to reflect a personal commitment. It should spark thought and debate. A principled decision not to write and sign the Pledge discussed and explained in an atmosphere of mutual respect would likely do more to promote the University's core value of academic integrity than ritualistic compliance.
What kinds of academic exercises should include the Pledge statement?
The University Senate Committee on Student Conduct, with approval by the Senate Executive Committee, has urged faculty members to include the Pledge on all assignments worth 20% or more of the course grade. The Pledge may also be included on lesser assignments this is up to the discretion of each individual professor.
What should faculty members tell students about University academic integrity standards and the Honor Pledge?
Substantial research shows that academic dishonesty is less likely to occur in classes where students know their teachers care about academic integrity. Stern lectures or threats of punishment are not required. The best approach is to identify and affirm high community standards, endorsed by other students. For example, faculty members might state on the first day of classes that:
The University has an active Student Honor Council. The Honor Council sets high standards for academic integrity, and I support its efforts. Please note in this regard the University Honor Pledge you will be asked to write and sign on papers and examinations, as specified in my syllabus.


Brand new renovated Auto repair shop, 4 bays with rooms for expansion. Big lot that could fit 40 parked cars. Full set of Equipments for most mechanic work. Fully stock with inventory needed to operate. Gross sales are between $28,000 - $30,000 monthly. Seller is taking a full-time salary and is present at shop. Near Downtown, of a local town, and very close to a busy intersection. Please call or email Yehuda Soewargo with any questions, yehuda@linkbusiness.com or 817-584-8614.


text:
Q: How to Hide API_KEY in browser's Source Code? Suppose I'm sending an API_KEY from the server to the client side, and at client side I'm using JavaScript/jquery.
How can I protect my API_KEY so that no one can see this API_KEY by "Right Click-> View Page Source" in js Part?

A: There is no way to do this as the previous answers say. So your best bet here is to:

*

*Make sure what you send can't be abused (IE: Don't send a sensitive key, but maybe a temporary reference to it?)

*Find another way to solve the same problem. Often you can solve these kind of problems by moving your logic to the server/backend, so no sensitive information needs to leave the server.

More info would be great if you want any spesific suggestions.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
New pub bombs memorial will "help bring healing" to Birmingham
Campaigners pay tribute to Irish community
Julie Hambleton
Sign up to FREE daily email alerts from BirminghamLive - Weekly Politics
Benevolence ....A true definition can be found at Grand Central (formerly New Street train station) concourse, where three trees have been planned, designed and built with the names of all the 21 people killed in the Birmingham pub bombings.
Each of the 21 names are sitting on the branches waiting for the sun to shine through so their names are forever cast over the city where they lived and sadly died.
This new Memorial has surpassed anything our families could ever have dreamt of and has been made possible through the sheer determination of some incredible people.
The new memorial erected outside Grand Central at New Street station.
They say 'charity begins at home' and this is a prime example of that.
The Memorial has only been possible because of some very kind donators, sponsors and volunteers who have given up their own time, effort and expertise to make it a truly positive change for Birmingham, because it is also hoped that it will help to 'heal the heart' of our great city's community.
When our loved ones were murdered, the Irish community suffered too. Not only in the sense of losing loved ones, but in the sense of community too.
They were ostracised, faced with prejudice and physical attacks and hatred. After the bombings the community in Birmingham no longer had any sense of solidarity, particularly for the Irish community.
Friends, relatives, campaigners and supporters watch as the new memorial is unveiled
This was something that my brother, Brian and I had always wanted to try and 'mend', but had no idea how to go about it especially amongst the Irish community.
Professor Gavin Schaffer, who lectures at University of Birmingham, heard about our plight and conducted a modern history seminar about this tragic time in our city's history.
He learned of our desire to try and solidify the fracture in our society. So began his journey to help us to do so.
Prof Schaffer made contact with a range of people from the Irish communityand we were invited to meet with Maurice Malone, the Chief Executive of the Birmingham Irish Association, Richard Sinclair, Chairman of Birmingham Irish Heritage Group and Maureen Slattery-Marsh of ICAP (Immigrant Counselling and Psychotherapy).
Nearly four years later, we are known as the Misneach Memorial Committee and have managed to overcome so many obstacles.
We can now see that anything can be accomplished as long as you have the fortitude, nous, patience and sheer determination to complete something that is worth fighting for.
Campaigner Julie Hambleton remembering those we lost
Without Prof Schaffer we would never have met with any of these fantastic individuals who have each given more than money can buy.
They have given their hearts and souls to reach out to remember those that they never knew but care enough to make sure that the 21 are never ever forgotten.
There are so many people our families wish to thank, where we are always totally astonished at the overwhelming kindness, generosity and spiritual humility amongst folk, in comparison to the cold, callous and contemptible manner of the British establishment.
The 21 victims of the Birmingham pub bombings will never be forgotten
Our supporters are based across the globe, many of whom travel from far and wide to stand shoulder to shoulder with us.
Enid took the bus from Manchester to attend the Memorial (and took the bus back the same evening).
She said: "It was very important to me personally that I attended and made the effort, because it was a very special and significant occasion that I didn't want to miss for any reason".
Other supporters travelled from Kent and London while others from the West Midlands came with their children, to stand in the bitter cold to pay their respects to those who we lost 44 years ago.
The eye-catching new memorial
Without, Maurice Malone and his fantastic staff, Prof Schaffer, Maureen Slattery-Marsh and her brothers Tom and Tony Slattery (who sang one of the most beautiful, poignant songs) and the guitarist Pete Harris, Richard Sinclair, Chairman of Birmingham Irish Heritage Group, this pivotal evening would not have been possible.
Special thanks to Azhar Quaiyoom from Network Rail, Simon Delahunty-Forrest, who is the City Design and Conservation Manager at Birmingham City Council, Craig Stenning the Deputy Station Manager at Grand Central station and Chris Hodgkiss, of British Transport Police who all made the evening possible. Also Ocean Vision who gave us 24 hours of free 'advertising' on all their digital boards in the city centre on 21 November 2018.
Faith leaders lead the service as the memorial was unveiled
Thanks also to:
* City council leader Ian Ward and fellow councillors for all their support and assistance throughout the process.
* Jess Phillips MP for taking time out of her busy Parliamentary duties to come and show her tangible support on such a momentous evening
* Chief Superintendent Kenny Bell and West Midlands Chief Constable Dave Thompson
* Faith Leaders – Archbishop Bernard Longley, Bishop of Birmingham Lord David Urquhart, Muhammad Afzal, Rabbi Margaret Jacobi, Mr Amrick Ubhi and Mr Dinesh Chauhan for their spiritual support.
* The Stage Bus Company
The 44th anniversary of the pub bombings is marked with a new memorial in a ceremony watched by relatives who hope it will bring healing to the city
* Professor Ray Linforth and Vice Principal Michael Harkin of University College Birmingham for their unstinting support and generosity.
* Helen the manager at 'All Bar One' and her fantastic staff (at Grand Central), also the West Midlands Area Manager of MacDonald Hotels, Derek McDonagh at the Burlington Hotel, where hot food, drinks and the warmth of great hospitality was received
* Heartfelt thanks to our superb legal team KRW law LLP, who took time out of their very busy lives to come and illustrate their spiritual support.
It is the families' belief that our legal team have set the benchmark for others to aspire to; as they not only have represented us pro bono for nearly four years but their moral compass could be considered equivalent to any paragon of virtue alongside that of Maurice Malone, Prof Gavin Schaffer, Maureen Slattery-Marsh and Richard Sinclair.
* Allison at Conorand William Jewellers (bespoke and handmade silver jewellery) who exceeded all of our expectations and provided a service beyond measure.
* All our media supporters
Birmingham Pub Bombings


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Coach Mike Leach, Suspended After Claims of Abuse, Wants to Play in Bowl
Suspended Texas Tech University's Mike Leach wants to coach at the Alamo Bowl.
EMILY FRIEDMAN
Dec. 29, 2009 — -- Texas Tech University football coach Mike Leach is still hoping to make it to Saturday's bowl game against Michigan State, despite being suspended after a team member accused him of confining him to a "dark shed" while the rest of the team practiced nearby.
An attorney representing Leach filed a temporary restraining order in a Lubbock, Texas, court Tuesday that would allow him to coach in the Alamo Bowl on Jan. 2, according to The Associated Press.
According to the filing obtained by the AP, Leach says in court documents that he "would never intentionally harm or endanger a player" and that he has been "forced into this situation without being afforded any process."
The university suspended Leach Monday after the family of receiver Adam James -- whose father is Craig James, a football analyst for ESPN -- complained to the university that the college sophomore had been mistreated.
But Leach's lawyer, Ted Liggett, said the allegations are untrue and that his client keeps all injured players near the team so that players still feel like "part of the team."
"Right now, we're going through the court system to try to get this decision reversed and have him coach in the bowl game," Liggett told ABCNews.com, calling the effort to get Leach reinstated before the Alamo Bowl an "uphill climb."
While the university itself did not name James in its announcement of Leach's suspension, calling the incident a "personnel matter," the family itself released a statement Monday identifying the 21-year-old as the player in question.
In the statement, the family claimed that their son had "been subjected to actions and treatment not consistent with common sense rules for safety and health."
The university has named defense coordinator Ruffin McNeill as the interim head coach who will lead the team in the Jan. 2 game.
Craig James, the player's father, will also no longer announce the game on Saturday, following the allegations, according to an ESPN spokeswoman.
Coach Mike Leach Accused of Putting Player in 'Dark Shed'
Both Craig and Adam James declined requests for interviews with ABCNews.com.
Leach's suspension comes on the heels of an in-depth investigation by local Lubbock, Tex., newspaper the Avalanche-Journal, which, on Dec. 17, the day after the student athlete was diagnosed with a concussion, reported that Leach had allegedly mistreated James.
According to the paper, Leach ordered James to "stand in a dark shed at the Tech football practice facility because he thought James was faking a concussion."
Two days later, the paper reported that Leach had James stand in another dark room "for three hours."
But Liggett says that the characterizations of where James was put are inaccurate, and that Leach was trying to protect the player from an "unseasonably warm" day in Lubbock while he recovered from his concussion.
"[Leach] thought James would probably be better off in the equipment room -- it's like a portable building -- it's not a shed," Liggett said. "It's air conditioned, if not very well-ventilated, to a point where it's a luxury to go in there in the heat.
"Not only did he put him in a room out of the heat, but [Leach] put him in a room that was very dark, which is good if you have a concussion," Liggett said, adding that an assistant also was ordered to check on James throughout the day.
As for the allegations that James was put in another dark room a few days later, Liggett said that Leach put James in a media room that he says is being unfairly described as an "electrical closet."
"It sounds like a band from the '60s, I don't know what an electrical closet it," Liggett said.
Liggett says that Leach was treating James like he would any other injured player, making sure his condition didn't alienate him from the team.
"Anyone who knows Mike and has been to his practices knows that if you're hurt, you're still part of the team," he said, "and he keeps you as close to everything as he possibly can.
"If you have a bad hamstring, you're on the sidelines on a bike, outside," Liggett said. "This was just Leach keeping James close."
Former Texas Tech Player Defend Coach Leach
A former athlete for Texas Tech's football team, Eric Morris, told the Avalanche-Journal that Leach would always require injured players to be present during practices, saying, "If you're injured, you're required to still participate in some form or fashion. You still have to be outside and doing something."
And while other former players have stepped up in Leach's defense, this is not the first incident that has called the coach's behavior into question. During a news conference in October, Leach blamed the team's loss against rival Texas A&M on his players listening to "their fat little girlfriends."
In the meantime, Leach is holding up "just fine," according to his attorney, but is anxious to return to the sidelines.
"All Mike wants is to be reunited with his boys as the winningest coach in the history of Texas Tech University football," Liggett said.
"He wants to be reunited with his boys to play in this 11th straight bowl game."


Elsewhere there is leather, aluminium and even a couple of iPhones which double up as additional displays for driver and co-driver.
It was at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este in Italy three years ago that BMW unveiled the striking M1 Hommage Concept, and at the same event in 2011 the German automaker is paying tribute to another of its past greats, the legendary 328 sports car of the 1930s.
The concept is described as a modern interpretation of the 1930s-era 328, something–according to BMW, at least–that the designers of the original 328, Fritz Fiedler and Rudolf Schleicher, might have built in the present day using current technology.
Like the original, the design of the 328 Hommage pays special attention to lightweight construction and as such major parts of the concept are made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). Total curb weight is said to be just 1,720 pounds.
No powertrain details were revealed apart from there being a "powerful" 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine under the hood. We can imagine, however, that with the lightweight carbon fiber body and the same 335 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque twin-turbocharged mill from the 2011 BMW 1-Series M Coupe, this thing could be a rocket.
Inside, fine leather, matte and high-gloss black polished aluminum and even more carbon fiber delight the visual senses. A sparse instrument panel is dominated by the only round instrument–the prominently designed rev counter. Other useful info displayed are oil temperature, oil pressure and water temperature.
One nifty feature is the so-called tripmaster. The instrument panel of the 328 Hommage is a fitted with two Apple iPhones located in special holders and which assume additional display functions for the driver and co-driver. Firstly, the iPhones function as stopwatches for measuring lap times and secondly as GPS roadbooks. Using two iPhones the driver and front-seat passenger/co-driver respectively can use both functions at the same time. After a journey, the iPhones can also be taken away in their holders.


Congratulations to Staff that Earned a 2016 Promotion at Pivot CPAs!
Pamela Bomba has been promoted to Principal, Tax. While she has a strong background in all areas of taxation, Pamela primarily specializes in consulting and compliance for large, multi-state corporations, partnerships, and their owners. She has extensive experience with different tax sectors including local, state and federal taxation and financial accounting.
Darrell Clarkson has been promoted to Senior Tax Manager. Darrell has worked extensively with small to medium sized businesses and he believes in proactive tax planning. Darrell is focused on delivering personalized service and attention to his clients. Throughout the year, he keeps individuals and business clients informed about tax law changes, opportunities and potential tax liabilities.
Dustin Saunders has been promoted to Tax Manager.
Eric Marousek has been promoted to Tax Senior Associate.
Bill Peavey has been promoted to Manager, Accounting Services.
We are so grateful for these staff members and all their hard work year round.
Older PostThe Griggs Group, CPAs has rebranded to PIVOT CPAs!


You may still be subsisting on WordPress' standard RSS feed option. If that is the case, now is the time to boost your readership with FeedBurner.
FeedBurner gives you advanced tracking options, allows you to display social proof (i.e. the number of RSS readers) on your blog, and allows for your visitors to sign up to automatic updates via email. I cannot stress how important that last one is – everyone has an email address – RSS users are nowhere near as prevalent. I'm only scratching the surface here – there is a lot on offer, and it's all free.
All I need is 5 minutes of your time, and you'll be set to go.
Head over to FeedBurner and tap in your Google account details. Don't have a Google account? Seriously? I'm just messing with you. Don't worry about it – just click the link at the top to sign up for a Google account.
Time to burn that feed of yours. You don't even need to know the address of your blog's feed – just type in your domain name and you are good to go.
Give your brand new feed a nice descriptive name and a URL. This is too easy, right?
Done! That was relatively painless. Make sure that you check the boxes for whatever you want at the next screen. It's all free, so be as greedy as you like!
You will now be told that your feed is ready for the world. Let's ignore that just for a minute though. I want to get your email subscribe option set up too.
Go ahead and hit 'Publicize'. You'll be presented with a swathe of options, but don't let that throw you. Hit 'Email Subscriptions' in the sidebar. Hit activate at the bottom. Now your visitors can have the option of email updates too. There are lots of other clever little things you can do, like customize fonts and have Google send your 100th email subscriber flowers (okay, I made that last one up), but we're sticking to basics here.
You'll want to copy the bits of code that FeedBurner has helpfully presented to you so that you can actually ask your visitors to sign up to updates via email.
We just need to do one more thing – make sure that all relevant RSS links on your blog are redirected to FeedBurner. That sounds like a hassle, right? It's no problem. Just follow the instructions over here and you're golden – the magic of WordPress plugins doing all the heavy lifting for you strikes again.
Don't forget to give your visitors a means by which they can sign up by email! You wouldn't want them to miss out now that you've gone to all this trouble, right?


text:
The Battle of Hefei, also known as the Battle of Hefei Xincheng, was fought between the contending states of Cao Wei and Eastern Wu from roughly April to August 253 during the Three Kingdoms period of China.

The battle
In the spring of 253, the Wu regent Zhuge Ke returned from the Battle of Dongxing to the Wu capital Jianye (present-day Nanjing, Jiangsu). Ignoring the advice of several officials, in April 253, Zhuge Ke led a 200,000 strong army to attack Wei in the north. By May or early June, Zhuge Ke and his army had reached south of the Huai River, and started attacking the Wei fortress Xincheng (新城; literally "new city/fortress") at Hefei in the following month. Zhuge Ke's forces besieged Xincheng and launched fierce attacks on the fortress. At the time, Xincheng was guarded by the Wei general Zhang Te and his subordinates Liu Zheng () and Zheng Xiang (). The Wei forces defending Xincheng, numbering only 3,000, managed to hold off Zhuge Ke's army for more than a month while inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy.

Zhang Te told Zhuge Ke: "I have no intention of fighting now. However, according to the laws of Wei, when I am under attack for more than 100 days and reinforcements do not arrive, even if I surrender, my family will be spared from punishment. Since I first started resisting the enemy, it has been more than 90 days. This city originally had a population of more than 4,000, and now more than half of them have died in battle. Even when the city falls, if someone does not wish to surrender, I will speak to him and explain the possible implications of his choice. Tomorrow morning I will send a list of names, you can first take my tally as a token of trust." After finishing his speech, Zhang Te tossed his tally to Zhuge Ke, who did not take the tally as he believed that Zhang Te would keep his word.

That night, Zhang Te ordered his men to tear down houses and fences, and use the wood to reinforce damaged parts of the fortress walls. The next morning, Zhang Te announced to the enemy: "We shall fight to the death!", and firmly refused to surrender. The Wu soldiers were furious and attacked the fortress but were unable to breach the walls.

At that time, the weather was extremely hot and the Wu troops were growing weary. A plague broke out and killed many Wu soldiers as well as caused more than half of the Wu army to fall ill. Zhuge Ke grew impatient and vented his frustration on his subordinates, causing much unhappiness among his men. He even dismissed his subordinate, Zhu Yi. Later, the Wei general Sima Fu led 200,000 troops to reinforce Zhang Te at Xincheng and defeated the exhausted Wu army. Sometime between 12 August and 9 September 253, Zhuge Ke had no choice but to order a withdrawal and the siege on Xincheng was lifted.

Aftermath
As Zhuge Ke and the Wu army withdrew from Xincheng, many of the sick and wounded soldiers died along the way or were taken prisoner by Sima Fu and his reinforcements. Zhuge Ke showed no concern towards them.

At Xunyang, Zhuge Ke halted and made plans to create an agricultural colony. The Wu emperor Sun Liang sent several edicts recalling Zhuge Ke and his army to the capital. Slowly, Zhuge Ke sent the soldiers home. After this, popular opinion turned sharply against Zhuge Ke, as the resentment of the widowed, orphaned and maimed far outweighing the goodwill Zhuge Ke had earned with his economic reforms in 252.

15 years later, the Wu emperor Sun Hao ordered the general Ding Feng to lead an army to attack Hefei again. However, neither side saw any significant action, and the campaign ended after Ding Feng exchanged some letters with the Jin general Shi Bao, who was guarding Hefei.

In popular culture
The battle is featured as a playable stage in Koei's video game series Dynasty Warriors. In 7, playable under the new Jin dynasty story, the battle is known as the "Battle of New Hefei Castle", and is not to be confused with another stage (Battle of Hefei Castle), which refers to the Battle of Hefei (234) and appears along with the former battle in the succeeding installment. In the game, however, Sima Shi, Sima Zhao, and Zhuge Dan also appear on the Wei side, despite they are considered Jin officers.

References

 Chen, Shou (3rd century). Records of the Three Kingdoms (Sanguozhi).
 Pei, Songzhi (5th century). Annotations to Records of the Three Kingdoms (Sanguozhi zhu).
 Sima, Guang (1084). Zizhi Tongjian.

253
Hefei 253
Military history of Anhui
Hefei 253
Hefei

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


Our experience shows exercise rehabilitation, in addition to chiropractic treatment, is essential to achieving a complete recovery from any musculoskeletal condition or injury.
In addition to correcting the cause of body imbalance and addressing nutritional deficiencies, exercise rehabilitation is the key to a full recovery; allowing you to maximize your health.
Strengthening and balancing your muscles are the two most important factors for supporting and maintaining spinal and other structural corrections. When muscles are balanced and strengthened, posture is improved, your body works more efficiently and it fatigues less rapidly.
In addition to offering custom designed programs for the specific needs of each patient, we also develop specific training programs. Let us design a rehabilitation program for you, whether your focus is on injuries, postural improvement, weight loss, body fat reduction or peak performance.


This encyclopedia is an attempt to catalogue all possible elements of Celtic culture, from its origins in central Europe in the Bronze Age, through the 21st century. Obviously, this is a rather daunting task, and one which needs some explanation.
To begin with, we must address what as meant by "Celtic". The Celts were not and are not a race, but a linguistic group with some overlapping cultural customs and beliefs. They are not a homogenous group; the neolithic aboriginies of the British Isles whose decendents still live there today, particularly in Connaught, Ireland, are no less "Celtic" than the Gauls who battled Caesar--and yet, they are not of the same "race". "Race" is a cultural concept. The Celts never thought of themselves as a single race, but were organized as a series of tribes; loyalty was to the tribe, to the tuath, but never to a single "race"--this is the fantasy of nineteenth century nationalists and twentieth century fanaticists.
However, what is to be seen is that the Celts both absorbed and distributed their culture over much of Europe. There are certain cultural characteristics which, arguably (and there is much argument in this field), would be defined as "Celtic": the druid class, certain deities, a certain type of stylized art, to name a few. From there, we can move forward into the Middle Ages, in which we focus on the literature of the Irish, Welsh, and Scottish, as well as continental literature, particularly in France, but also in German, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, etc. From there, the emphasis grows outwards, encompassing the New World, particularly Nova Scotia, with its Gaelic-speaking population and tales of "Finn mac Cool".
My hope is that I am creating a reliable, fairly complete reference guide--not simply a concordance or dictionary of names, my hope is that this will serve to explore the major themes of Celtic culture and the modern perception of this culture, over the past 2,500 years.
This encyclopedia is copywritten to the author, who only requires credit where credit is due.


Posted by Gerald Lombardo on Monday, April 15th, 2019 at 12:10pm.
"Wheels Across The Pond," the British classic car and motorcycle show, is happening for the 13th year in a row this Saturday at Carlin Park.
Since the show's inception in 2007, it has continued to grow to where now they expect over 250 vehicles. Any donations or money made during the show will go to the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a no-kill animal sanctuary in Jupiter.
The Busch Wildlife Sanctuary is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and conservation of Florida's wildlife and natural resources. To accomplish this mission, the Sanctuary is open to the public and offers environmental education opportunities and provides wildlife rescue and rehabilitative services.
The Sanctuary is open to the public for only a donation with regularly scheduled programs to educate young and old alike about nature, wildlife, and issues that affect our environment.


How do I transfer number plate ownership?
Transferring your number plates to a the new owner is relatively painless. Simply complete a Transfer of Ownership form and exchange it for payment, with the buyer. This process is very similar to selling a vehicle. See links below to download relevant transfer form.
When possible, we suggest meeting the buyer in person at a local traffic authority office to make the exchange as smooth as possible. This will also allow you to register new plates for your vehicle at the same time, if required. For complete peace of mind, call your states traffic authority and they can confirm the seller is actually the current owner of the plates.
It's important to the remember your plates always remain the property of the state / country they are registered in. You are simply transferring the 'Rights to Display' your particular combination of characters.
Remember, never hand over a completed Transfer of Ownership form without first receiving payment in full.
Can I display number plates on my car from another state / country?
How do I receive payment from the buyer?


text:
package org.apache.giraph.conf;

import org.apache.giraph.aggregators.AggregatorWriter;
import org.apache.giraph.combiner.Combiner;
import org.apache.giraph.edge.Edge;
import org.apache.giraph.edge.EdgeFactory;
import org.apache.giraph.edge.ReusableEdge;
import org.apache.giraph.edge.VertexEdges;
import org.apache.giraph.graph.GraphState;
import org.apache.giraph.graph.Vertex;
import org.apache.giraph.graph.VertexResolver;
import org.apache.giraph.graph.VertexValueFactory;
import org.apache.giraph.io.EdgeInputFormat;
import org.apache.giraph.io.VertexInputFormat;
import org.apache.giraph.io.VertexOutputFormat;
import org.apache.giraph.io.superstep_output.MultiThreadedSuperstepOutput;
import org.apache.giraph.io.superstep_output.NoOpSuperstepOutput;
import org.apache.giraph.io.superstep_output.SuperstepOutput;
import org.apache.giraph.io.superstep_output.SynchronizedSuperstepOutput;
import org.apache.giraph.job.GiraphJobObserver;
import org.apache.giraph.master.MasterCompute;
import org.apache.giraph.master.MasterObserver;
import org.apache.giraph.partition.GraphPartitionerFactory;
import org.apache.giraph.partition.Partition;
import org.apache.giraph.partition.PartitionContext;
import org.apache.giraph.utils.ExtendedByteArrayDataInput;
import org.apache.giraph.utils.ExtendedByteArrayDataOutput;
import org.apache.giraph.utils.ExtendedDataInput;
import org.apache.giraph.utils.ExtendedDataOutput;
import org.apache.giraph.utils.ReflectionUtils;
import org.apache.giraph.utils.UnsafeByteArrayInputStream;
import org.apache.giraph.utils.UnsafeByteArrayOutputStream;
import org.apache.giraph.worker.WorkerContext;
import org.apache.giraph.worker.WorkerObserver;
import org.apache.hadoop.conf.Configuration;
import org.apache.hadoop.io.NullWritable;
import org.apache.hadoop.io.Writable;
import org.apache.hadoop.io.WritableComparable;
import org.apache.hadoop.mapreduce.Mapper;
import org.apache.hadoop.util.Progressable;

/**
 * The classes set here are immutable, the remaining configuration is mutable.
 * Classes are immutable and final to provide the best performance for
 * instantiation.  Everything is thread-safe.
 *
 * @param <I> Vertex id
 * @param <V> Vertex data
 * @param <E> Edge data
 * @param <M> Message data
 */
@SuppressWarnings("unchecked")
public class ImmutableClassesGiraphConfiguration<I extends WritableComparable,
    V extends Writable, E extends Writable, M extends Writable>
    extends GiraphConfiguration {
  /** Holder for all the classes */
  private final GiraphClasses classes;
  /** Vertex value factory. */
  private final VertexValueFactory<V> vertexValueFactory;

  /**
   * Use unsafe serialization? Cached for fast access to instantiate the
   * extended data input/output classes
   */
  private final boolean useUnsafeSerialization;

  /**
   * Constructor.  Takes the configuration and then gets the classes out of
   * them for Giraph
   *
   * @param conf Configuration
   */
  public ImmutableClassesGiraphConfiguration(Configuration conf) {
    super(conf);
    classes = new GiraphClasses(conf);
    useUnsafeSerialization = USE_UNSAFE_SERIALIZATION.get(this);
    try {
      vertexValueFactory = (VertexValueFactory<V>)
          classes.getVertexValueFactoryClass().newInstance();
    } catch (InstantiationException e) {
      throw new IllegalArgumentException(
          "ImmutableClassesGiraphConfiguration: Failed to instantiate class " +
              classes.getVertexValueFactoryClass(), e);
    } catch (IllegalAccessException e) {
      throw new IllegalArgumentException(
          "ImmutableClassesGiraphConfiguration: Illegally accessed class " +
              classes.getVertexValueFactoryClass(), e);
    }
    vertexValueFactory.initialize(this);
  }

  /**
   * Create a new ImmutableClassesGiraphConfiguration. This is a convenience
   * method to make it easier to deal with generics.
   *
   * @param conf Configuration to read
   * @param <I> Vertex ID
   * @param <V> Vertex Value
   * @param <E> Edge Value
   * @param <M> Message Value
   * @return new ImmutableClassesGiraphConfiguration
   */
  public static <I extends WritableComparable,
      V extends Writable, E extends Writable, M extends Writable>
  ImmutableClassesGiraphConfiguration<I, V, E, M> create(Configuration conf) {
    return new ImmutableClassesGiraphConfiguration<I, V, E, M>(conf);
  }

  /**
   * Configure an object with this instance if the object is configurable.
   * @param obj Object
   */
  public void configureIfPossible(Object obj) {
    if (obj instanceof ImmutableClassesGiraphConfigurable) {
      ((ImmutableClassesGiraphConfigurable) obj).setConf(this);
    }
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed
   * {@link org.apache.giraph.partition.GraphPartitionerFactory}.
   *
   * @return User's graph partitioner
   */
  public Class<? extends GraphPartitionerFactory<I, V, E, M>>
  getGraphPartitionerClass() {
    return classes.getGraphPartitionerFactoryClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user graph partitioner class
   *
   * @return Instantiated user graph partitioner class
   */
  public GraphPartitionerFactory<I, V, E, M> createGraphPartitioner() {
    Class<? extends GraphPartitionerFactory<I, V, E, M>> klass =
        classes.getGraphPartitionerFactoryClass();
    return ReflectionUtils.newInstance(klass, this);
  }

  @Override
  public boolean hasVertexInputFormat() {
    return classes.hasVertexInputFormat();
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed
   * {@link org.apache.giraph.io.VertexInputFormat}.
   *
   * @return User's vertex input format class
   */
  public Class<? extends VertexInputFormat<I, V, E>>
  getVertexInputFormatClass() {
    return classes.getVertexInputFormatClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user vertex input format class
   *
   * @return Instantiated user vertex input format class
   */
  public VertexInputFormat<I, V, E> createVertexInputFormat() {
    Class<? extends VertexInputFormat<I, V, E>> klass =
        classes.getVertexInputFormatClass();
    return ReflectionUtils.newInstance(klass, this);
  }

  @Override
  public boolean hasVertexOutputFormat() {
    return classes.hasVertexOutputFormat();
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed
   * {@link org.apache.giraph.io.VertexOutputFormat}.
   *
   * @return User's vertex output format class
   */
  public Class<? extends VertexOutputFormat<I, V, E>>
  getVertexOutputFormatClass() {
    return classes.getVertexOutputFormatClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user vertex output format class
   *
   * @return Instantiated user vertex output format class
   */
  @SuppressWarnings("rawtypes")
  public VertexOutputFormat<I, V, E> createVertexOutputFormat() {
    Class<? extends VertexOutputFormat<I, V, E>> klass =
        classes.getVertexOutputFormatClass();
    return ReflectionUtils.newInstance(klass, this);
  }

  /**
   * Create the proper superstep output, based on the configuration settings.
   *
   * @param context Mapper context
   * @return SuperstepOutput
   */
  public SuperstepOutput<I, V, E> createSuperstepOutput(
      Mapper<?, ?, ?, ?>.Context context) {
    if (doOutputDuringComputation()) {
      if (vertexOutputFormatThreadSafe()) {
        return new MultiThreadedSuperstepOutput<I, V, E>(this, context);
      } else {
        return new SynchronizedSuperstepOutput<I, V, E>(this, context);
      }
    } else {
      return new NoOpSuperstepOutput<I, V, E>();
    }
  }

  @Override
  public boolean hasEdgeInputFormat() {
    return classes.hasEdgeInputFormat();
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed
   * {@link org.apache.giraph.io.EdgeInputFormat}.
   *
   * @return User's edge input format class
   */
  public Class<? extends EdgeInputFormat<I, E>> getEdgeInputFormatClass() {
    return classes.getEdgeInputFormatClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user edge input format class
   *
   * @return Instantiated user edge input format class
   */
  public EdgeInputFormat<I, E> createEdgeInputFormat() {
    Class<? extends EdgeInputFormat<I, E>> klass = getEdgeInputFormatClass();
    return ReflectionUtils.newInstance(klass, this);
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed {@link AggregatorWriter}.
   *
   * @return User's aggregator writer class
   */
  public Class<? extends AggregatorWriter> getAggregatorWriterClass() {
    return classes.getAggregatorWriterClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user aggregator output format class
   *
   * @return Instantiated user aggregator writer class
   */
  public AggregatorWriter createAggregatorWriter() {
    return ReflectionUtils.newInstance(getAggregatorWriterClass(), this);
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed {@link Combiner} class.
   *
   * @return User's combiner class
   */
  public Class<? extends Combiner<I, M>> getCombinerClass() {
    return classes.getCombinerClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user combiner class
   *
   * @return Instantiated user combiner class
   */
  @SuppressWarnings("rawtypes")
  public Combiner<I, M> createCombiner() {
    Class<? extends Combiner<I, M>> klass = classes.getCombinerClass();
    return ReflectionUtils.newInstance(klass, this);
  }

  /**
   * Check if user set a combiner
   *
   * @return True iff user set a combiner class
   */
  public boolean useCombiner() {
    return classes.hasCombinerClass();
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed VertexResolver.
   *
   * @return User's vertex resolver class
   */
  public Class<? extends VertexResolver<I, V, E, M>> getVertexResolverClass() {
    return classes.getVertexResolverClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user vertex revolver
   *
   * @param graphState State of the graph from the worker
   * @return Instantiated user vertex resolver
   */
  @SuppressWarnings("rawtypes")
  public VertexResolver<I, V, E, M> createVertexResolver(
                       GraphState<I, V, E, M> graphState) {
    VertexResolver<I, V, E, M> resolver =
        ReflectionUtils.newInstance(getVertexResolverClass(), this);
    resolver.setGraphState(graphState);
    return resolver;
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed PartitionContext.
   *
   * @return User's partition context class
   */
  public Class<? extends PartitionContext> getPartitionContextClass() {
    return classes.getPartitionContextClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user partition context
   *
   * @return Instantiated user partition context
   */
  public PartitionContext createPartitionContext() {
    return ReflectionUtils.newInstance(getPartitionContextClass(), this);
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed WorkerContext.
   *
   * @return User's worker context class
   */
  public Class<? extends WorkerContext> getWorkerContextClass() {
    return classes.getWorkerContextClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user worker context
   *
   * @param graphState State of the graph from the worker
   * @return Instantiated user worker context
   */
  @SuppressWarnings("rawtypes")
  public WorkerContext createWorkerContext(GraphState<I, V, E, M> graphState) {
    WorkerContext workerContext =
        ReflectionUtils.newInstance(getWorkerContextClass(), this);
    workerContext.setGraphState(graphState);
    return workerContext;
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed {@link org.apache.giraph.master.MasterCompute}
   *
   * @return User's master class
   */
  public Class<? extends MasterCompute> getMasterComputeClass() {
    return classes.getMasterComputeClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user master
   *
   * @return Instantiated user master
   */
  public MasterCompute createMasterCompute() {
    return ReflectionUtils.newInstance(getMasterComputeClass(), this);
  }

  @Override
  public Class<? extends Vertex<I, V, E, M>> getVertexClass() {
    return classes.getVertexClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user vertex
   *
   * @return Instantiated user vertex
   */
  public Vertex<I, V, E, M> createVertex() {
    return ReflectionUtils.newInstance(getVertexClass(), this);
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed vertex index class.
   *
   * @return User's vertex index class
   */
  public Class<I> getVertexIdClass() {
    return classes.getVertexIdClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user vertex index
   *
   * @return Instantiated user vertex index
   */
  public I createVertexId() {
    try {
      return getVertexIdClass().newInstance();
    } catch (InstantiationException e) {
      throw new IllegalArgumentException(
          "createVertexId: Failed to instantiate", e);
    } catch (IllegalAccessException e) {
      throw new IllegalArgumentException(
          "createVertexId: Illegally accessed", e);
    }
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed vertex value class.
   *
   * @return User's vertex value class
   */
  public Class<V> getVertexValueClass() {
    return classes.getVertexValueClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user vertex value
   *
   * @return Instantiated user vertex value
   */
  @SuppressWarnings("unchecked")
  public V createVertexValue() {
    return vertexValueFactory.createVertexValue();
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed vertex value factory class
   *
   * @return User's vertex value factory class
   */
  public Class<? extends VertexValueFactory<V>> getVertexValueFactoryClass() {
    return classes.getVertexValueFactoryClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create array of MasterObservers.
   *
   * @return Instantiated array of MasterObservers.
   */
  public MasterObserver[] createMasterObservers() {
    Class<? extends MasterObserver>[] klasses = getMasterObserverClasses();
    MasterObserver[] objects = new MasterObserver[klasses.length];
    for (int i = 0; i < klasses.length; ++i) {
      objects[i] = ReflectionUtils.newInstance(klasses[i], this);
    }
    return objects;
  }

  /**
   * Create array of WorkerObservers.
   *
   * @return Instantiated array of WorkerObservers.
   */
  public WorkerObserver[] createWorkerObservers() {
    Class<? extends WorkerObserver>[] klasses = getWorkerObserverClasses();
    WorkerObserver[] objects = new WorkerObserver[klasses.length];
    for (int i = 0; i < klasses.length; ++i) {
      objects[i] = ReflectionUtils.newInstance(klasses[i], this);
    }
    return objects;
  }

  /**
   * Create job observer
   * @return GiraphJobObserver set in configuration.
   */
  public GiraphJobObserver getJobObserver() {
    return ReflectionUtils.newInstance(getJobObserverClass(), this);
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed edge value class.
   *
   * @return User's vertex edge value class
   */
  public Class<E> getEdgeValueClass() {
    return classes.getEdgeValueClass();
  }

  /**
   * Tell if we are using NullWritable for Edge value.
   *
   * @return true if NullWritable is class for
   */
  public boolean isEdgeValueNullWritable() {
    return getEdgeValueClass() == NullWritable.class;
  }

  /**
   * Create a user edge value
   *
   * @return Instantiated user edge value
   */
  public E createEdgeValue() {
    if (isEdgeValueNullWritable()) {
      return (E) NullWritable.get();
    } else {
      Class<E> klass = getEdgeValueClass();
      try {
        return klass.newInstance();
      } catch (InstantiationException e) {
        throw new IllegalArgumentException(
            "createEdgeValue: Failed to instantiate", e);
      } catch (IllegalAccessException e) {
        throw new IllegalArgumentException(
            "createEdgeValue: Illegally accessed", e);
      }
    }
  }

  /**
   * Create a user edge.
   *
   * @return Instantiated user edge.
   */
  public Edge<I, E> createEdge() {
    if (isEdgeValueNullWritable()) {
      return (Edge<I, E>) EdgeFactory.create(createVertexId());
    } else {
      return EdgeFactory.create(createVertexId(), createEdgeValue());
    }
  }

  /**
   * Create a reusable edge.
   *
   * @return Instantiated reusable edge.
   */
  public ReusableEdge<I, E> createReusableEdge() {
    if (isEdgeValueNullWritable()) {
      return (ReusableEdge<I, E>) EdgeFactory.createReusable(createVertexId());
    } else {
      return EdgeFactory.createReusable(createVertexId(), createEdgeValue());
    }
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed vertex message value class.
   *
   * @return User's vertex message value class
   */
  @SuppressWarnings("unchecked")
  public Class<M> getMessageValueClass() {
    return classes.getMessageValueClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user vertex message value
   *
   * @return Instantiated user vertex message value
   */
  public M createMessageValue() {
    Class<M> klass = getMessageValueClass();
    if (klass == NullWritable.class) {
      return (M) NullWritable.get();
    } else {
      try {
        return klass.newInstance();
      } catch (InstantiationException e) {
        throw new IllegalArgumentException(
            "createMessageValue: Failed to instantiate", e);
      } catch (IllegalAccessException e) {
        throw new IllegalArgumentException(
            "createMessageValue: Illegally accessed", e);
      }
    }
  }

  @Override
  public Class<? extends VertexEdges<I, E>> getVertexEdgesClass() {
    return classes.getVertexEdgesClass();
  }

  /**
   * Get the user's subclassed {@link VertexEdges} used for input
   *
   * @return User's input vertex edges class
   */
  public Class<? extends VertexEdges<I, E>> getInputVertexEdgesClass() {
    return classes.getInputVertexEdgesClass();
  }

  /**
   * Check whether the user has specified a different {@link VertexEdges}
   * class to be used during edge-based input.
   *
   * @return True iff there is a special edges class for input
   */
  public boolean useInputVertexEdges() {
    return classes.getInputVertexEdgesClass() != classes.getVertexEdgesClass();
  }

  /**
   * Create a user {@link VertexEdges}
   *
   * @return Instantiated user VertexEdges
   */
  public VertexEdges<I, E> createVertexEdges() {
    return ReflectionUtils.newInstance(getVertexEdgesClass(), this);
  }

  /**
   * Create a {@link VertexEdges} instance and initialize it with the default
   * capacity.
   *
   * @return Instantiated VertexEdges
   */
  public VertexEdges<I, E> createAndInitializeVertexEdges() {
    VertexEdges<I, E> vertexEdges = createVertexEdges();
    vertexEdges.initialize();
    return vertexEdges;
  }

  /**
   * Create a {@link VertexEdges} instance and initialize it with the given
   * capacity (the number of edges that will be added).
   *
   * @param capacity Number of edges that will be added
   * @return Instantiated VertexEdges
   */
  public VertexEdges<I, E> createAndInitializeVertexEdges(int capacity) {
    VertexEdges<I, E> vertexEdges = createVertexEdges();
    vertexEdges.initialize(capacity);
    return vertexEdges;
  }

  /**
   * Create a {@link VertexEdges} instance and initialize it with the given
   * iterable of edges.
   *
   * @param edges Iterable of edges to add
   * @return Instantiated VertexEdges
   */
  public VertexEdges<I, E> createAndInitializeVertexEdges(
      Iterable<Edge<I, E>> edges) {
    VertexEdges<I, E> vertexEdges = createVertexEdges();
    vertexEdges.initialize(edges);
    return vertexEdges;
  }

  /**
   * Create a user {@link VertexEdges} used during edge-based input
   *
   * @return Instantiated user input VertexEdges
   */
  public VertexEdges<I, E> createInputVertexEdges() {
    return ReflectionUtils.newInstance(getInputVertexEdgesClass(), this);
  }

  /**
   * Create an input {@link VertexEdges} instance and initialize it with the
   * default capacity.
   *
   * @return Instantiated input VertexEdges
   */
  public VertexEdges<I, E> createAndInitializeInputVertexEdges() {
    VertexEdges<I, E> vertexEdges = createInputVertexEdges();
    vertexEdges.initialize();
    return vertexEdges;
  }

  /**
   * Create a partition
   *
   * @param id Partition id
   * @param progressable Progressable for reporting progress
   * @return Instantiated partition
   */
  public Partition<I, V, E, M> createPartition(
      int id, Progressable progressable) {
    Class<? extends Partition<I, V, E, M>> klass = classes.getPartitionClass();
    Partition<I, V, E, M> partition = ReflectionUtils.newInstance(klass, this);
    partition.initialize(id, progressable);
    return partition;
  }

  /**
   * Use unsafe serialization?
   *
   * @return True if using unsafe serialization, false otherwise.
   */
  public boolean useUnsafeSerialization() {
    return useUnsafeSerialization;
  }

  /**
   * Create an extended data output (can be subclassed)
   *
   * @return ExtendedDataOutput object
   */
  public ExtendedDataOutput createExtendedDataOutput() {
    if (useUnsafeSerialization) {
      return new UnsafeByteArrayOutputStream();
    } else {
      return new ExtendedByteArrayDataOutput();
    }
  }

  /**
   * Create an extended data output (can be subclassed)
   *
   * @param expectedSize Expected size
   * @return ExtendedDataOutput object
   */
  public ExtendedDataOutput createExtendedDataOutput(int expectedSize) {
    if (useUnsafeSerialization) {
      return new UnsafeByteArrayOutputStream(expectedSize);
    } else {
      return new ExtendedByteArrayDataOutput(expectedSize);
    }
  }

  /**
   * Create an extended data output (can be subclassed)
   *
   * @param buf Buffer to use for the output (reuse perhaps)
   * @param pos How much of the buffer is already used
   * @return ExtendedDataOutput object
   */
  public ExtendedDataOutput createExtendedDataOutput(byte[] buf,
                                                     int pos) {
    if (useUnsafeSerialization) {
      return new UnsafeByteArrayOutputStream(buf, pos);
    } else {
      return new ExtendedByteArrayDataOutput(buf, pos);
    }
  }

  /**
   * Create an extended data input (can be subclassed)
   *
   * @param buf Buffer to use for the input
   * @param off Where to start reading in the buffer
   * @param length Maximum length of the buffer
   * @return ExtendedDataInput object
   */
  public ExtendedDataInput createExtendedDataInput(
      byte[] buf, int off, int length) {
    if (useUnsafeSerialization) {
      return new UnsafeByteArrayInputStream(buf, off, length);
    } else {
      return new ExtendedByteArrayDataInput(buf, off, length);
    }
  }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


We've all been there; dealing with long, annoying tech support, hoping to make that extended warranty worth while. Should you eventually speak to a human, you run the risk of running smack into a language barrier. Then, there is always the inevitable 'Did you turn off your computer and turn it back on?' Would you really be still on hold if you hadn't tried everything you could think of?
Wish it was possible to bypass the technical support jungle all together? Vendor Management is a service provided by Netstar where we act as your single point of contact for all technical support needs. It's an underutilised service that allows small and medium business owners to worry about relationships with clients and company, not the manufacturer or vendor of your IT.
Since our techs are familiar with your software and hardware (not to mention your business goals), there is a chance that your issue will be repaired without contacting any sort of support. Even if the manufacturer support is required, our professional staff is able to relay the issues faster. We have also established working relationships with the majority of vendors, giving us a leg up.
Having a Netstar tech on your extended team will be invaluable to your company and your IT hardware and software. Call us today 020 7101 0544 for more information about how to enroll in Vendor Management.


View cart "White Croc Face & Neck Cream "TryMe"" has been added to your cart.
Apply a small amount onto fingers, warm in the palm of your hand and gently massage onto the affected area, wherever your skin needs support. Use twice daily or more frequently if desired to repair and nurture problem healthy skin.


text:
America's Got Talent announces guest judges Jay Leno, Ellie Kemper, Brad Paisley and Dwyane Wade
Wednesday 7/10/19 at 11:35PM EDT
Paisley will serve as a guest judge next Tuesday. Wade, who is married to AGT judge Gabrielle Union, will appear on July 23, followed by Ellie Kemper on July 30 and Leno on Aug. 6.
TOPICS: America's Got Talent, NBC, Brad Paisley, Dwyane Wade, Ellie Kemper, Jay Leno, Reality TV
More America's Got Talent on Primetimer:
Simon Cowell drops 20 pounds ahead of his 60th birthday
Disability rights advocates call the viral reaction to Kodi Lee's America's Got Talent performance "inspiration porn"
America's Got Talent returns to its lowest-rated premiere viewership, Songland has a solid debut
Blind and autistic America's Got Talent contestant goes viral with a stunning performance
Dive Deeper: Visit the America's Got Talent page


text:
module GithubStats
  VERSION = '1.0.1'
end


I purchased these socks to provide some cushioning for my feet in my MTB shoes, as the wide width of my current shoes is wider than the 20 year old pair that I retired. I have avoided socks in my road shoes because my toes fall asleep on longer rides. I wore these socks on a cool morning road ride and I was thoroughly impressed with their comfort and cushioning - no tingly toes. I have worn these socks on all my road rides this year and wish Id found these socks sooner.
Love Swiftwick socks! This wool sock is great for cool mornings, and is comfortable in the warmer afternoons. Another great sock.


text:
Stand Against Bigotry
New York Post: Schiff 'would be kicked out of any normal court' for lying
Following weeks of delay, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) finally appointed her impeachment managers for the Senate trial. Among them will be House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff (D-CA) and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler (D-NY).
The announcement didn't sit well with the New York Post's editorial board, who declared that Schiff "would be kicked out of any normal court for repeated lies."
A serial liar
In a piece titled "A normal court would reject a dishonest prosecutor like Adam Schiff," the Post editors complained that Schiff has "been lying to the world for years in his nonstop campaign to smear President Trump."
For evidence, they cite his 2017 claim of having "seen 'more than circumstantial evidence' that Trump had colluded with Russia to win the 2016 election — a claim exposed as false by the Mueller report."
They also recall how Schiff "insisted that Rep. [Devin] Nunes was flat-out wrong to say that the FBI's Russia investigation relied heavily on the absurd Steele Dossier to get warrants to surveil Carter Page; the recent inspector-general report shows that Nunes was right — and Schiff had to know it."
Lied about contact with "whistleblower"
"Last fall," the Post goes on to say, "Schiff even concealed his office's contacts with the Ukraine 'whistleblower' — and he still hasn't detailed his involvement in framing the case against Trump before the 'official impeachment inquiry' even began."
That's a reference to how in September, the California congressman appeared on MSNBC's "Morning Joe" and denied communicating with the CIA employee who filed a whistleblower complaint against President Donald Trump.
"We have not spoken directly with the whistleblower," Schiff claimed, although he said that his staff would like to speak to him.
Yet just weeks later, a New York Times report contradicted that claim. "The whistleblower gave an early account of allegations against President Trump to a House aide who outlined it to Rep. Adam Schiff, who is now leading the impeachment inquiry," a tweet from the paper revealed.
Nadler looks good in comparison
Schiff also made headlines for reading out a fabricated version of the transcript from Trump's July telephone call with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky. He later tried to justify the stunt as an act of parody.
According to the Post's editors, all of this makes Rep. Nadler look good by comparison. Yet as they make clear, this is faint praise.
"Next to that, the other lead manager, New York's own Rep. Jerry Nadler, seems a paragon," they conclude. "He's just a guy who won the Judiciary Committee chairmanship a year ago by claiming he'd be best to 'lead a potential impeachment' of Trump."
Adam Peters is a Conservative Institute staff writer.
"A free people [claim] their rights, as derived from the laws of nature."
© 2015-2020 Conservative Institute. All Rights Reserved.


Our work continues in relation to fire safety in our high-rise blocks and the safety of our residents remains our highest priority.
In our update on 1 August 2017, we informed you that cladding samples from all of our 16 high-rise blocks with the Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) cladding had been sent to the Building Research Establishment (BRE) for a second phase of testing.
Three of our high-rise blocks (Abbey Court, Cornwall Court and Cundiff Court) have cladding systems made up of ACM with a fire retardant polyethylene filler with mineral wool insulation. These adequately resisted the spread of fire to the standards required by current Building Regulations and have passed the tests.
The remaining 13 blocks with cladding systems made up of ACM with polyethene core (PE) with non-combustible mineral wool insulation did not pass the second round of tests.
Letters have been delivered to inform residents of all blocks of these results.
These results will inform our in-depth internal review into fire safety and will help us to determine the most suitable replacement for the cladding which has not been decided yet. We are looking into all options and will be working with our Board and appointed contractor and we will also be commissioning an independent validation of the options to ensure that we make the correct decisions.
The additional safety measures already outlined are underway, including the comprehensive Type 3 and 4 Fire Risk Assessments (FRAs) and the installation of fire alarms at all hi-rise blocks.
While we appreciate that residents will naturally have concerns, measures are in place to ensure resident safety, including the 'wakeful watch', which will remain in place 24/7 until fire alarms have been installed.
We appreciate the continued support and patience of our high-rise residents at this time and we ask that you continue to raise any issues of concern with your caretakers.


People were amazed when Anthony Bourdain's good and Evil chocolate bar appeared in 2012 at more than $100 a pound, however Amedei's Venezuelan-sourced Porcelana bar as of now tips the scales at more than $160 per pound. Cecilia Tessieri — one of the world's couple of female chocolatiers — makes probably the most costly chocolate on the planet. Since opening its entryways in 1990, the Tuscany-based brand Amedei has added to a $27,000 cupcake in Dubai, and also a $1,000 sundae at New York's Serendipity.